Common Tactics Car Insurance Providers Use to Deny Your Claim

Common Tactics Car Insurance Providers Use to Deny Your Claim

Posted By
Foley Griffin, LLP

Despite their upbeat ad campaigns, friendly slogans, and affable adjusters,
auto insurance companies are often not on your side. In fact, insurance
companies are often more concerned with guarding their own profits than
helping the injured by paying claims. While many policyholders rely on
insurance providers for much-needed financial assistance in the event
of a collision, insurance companies are often less-than-eager to uphold
their end of the bargain and may attempt to employ various tactics to
delay, deny, or diminish a person’s claims. Making yourself aware
of these tactics can be crucial to help you can protect your rights as
a policyholder and maximize your chances of securing the compensation
you deserve.

If you have filed an insurance claim, beware of the following strategies:

Telling you that you don’t need a lawyer: An adjuster will likely tell you that you are better off without a lawyer
and suggest that a lawyer will only take a large portion of your settlement.
While this may make sense on the surface, research has shown that claimants
with experienced legal representation consistently walk away with more
money than those who choose to settle directly. Likewise, if they should
deny your claim, you will have a much harder time contesting your denial
on your own.

Asking for a recorded or written statement: Insurance adjusters are trained in ways to get you to say something that
they can use against you, even if it means taking your statements out
of context. For example, if an insurance adjuster records a call with
you and asks you how you are feeling, to which you reply “I’m
doing well, thanks,” they may be able to use this statement to claim
that you are “well” and do not have any serious injuries.
Never, under any circumstances, submit a written statement or agree to
a recorded call without the instructions of your attorney.

Requesting an authorization for medical information: After a collision, your insurance adjuster may ask you to sign an authorization
form to access your medical records. What they don’t tell you is
that this authorization gives them the ability to sift through your entire
personal history in search of some sort of evidence of a past affliction
that could be used to falsely suggest that your injuries were due to a
preexisting condition.

Misrepresenting your coverage: If your insurance adjuster claims that your injuries are not covered,
do not take their word for it until you have read through the terms of
your policy. In many cases, coverage is hidden in dense legal terminology
which can be uncovered with the assistance of an experienced attorney.

Delaying payment: If you have been injured, it is likely that you are facing financial
struggles due to costly medical expenses and time away from work. Insurance
companies know this, and they will do everything they can to delay payment
of your claim until you are desperate enough to settle for a minimal amount.
An attorney can help ensure you are paid on-time and in full.

Injured in a Car Accident? Call (888) 966-8480

If you have been injured in a
car accident in Nassau County, the powerful
personal injury attorneys at Foley Griffin, LLP can handle negotiations with the involved
insurance companies on your behalf and work to maximize your potential
settlement. With more than 75 years of dedicated experience, we have what
it takes to secure the results you need.
Contact our office online to schedule a free consultation today.